Expectations are pretty high for the 2023 Cubs even if the national experts, folks at FanDuel and PECOTA think otherwise. I’m not sure they have the chip on their collective shoulder or not, but I don’t think the Cubs believe they’re not in it to win it.

When push comes to shove, I think the Cubs would prefer that their best paid players earn their keep this season, but if they get some value from other places they won’t complain.

I’m not sure that I buy collaborate v. compete plan for third base. Aside from the aforementioned five guys competing for the majority of at-bats, guys are competing for a roster spot and to provide organizational depth. David Bote is a non-roster-invitee with a history with the big league club. He also has a knack for hitting big homers and doing little else. The 29-year-old hit a three-run homer in today’s exhibition opener.

The 23-year-old, Christopher Morel, made his ML debut last year for the Cubs and sparked the club. He was one of the more exciting players on the club, and he proved that he might be most valuable in a Ben Zobrist role. He only played 18 games of 103 at third last year. In what seemed like a great offensive season, I was surprised that he only slashed .235/.303/.433 with 16hrs and 46 RBI in 379 at-bats. He also struck out 137 times.

Patrick Wisdom would appear to be the frontrunner as he’s been the most productive power source of the five players. He’s hit 53 homers the past two seasons with the Cubs. However, the 31-year-old saw his average drop from .235 to .207 last year when he played a team-high 103 games at third. Unless someone gets injured, he probably won’t get many innings at first this year. If he doesn’t get off to a good start he could end up like Frank “The Tank” Schwindel.

Former White Sox first round pick, Nick Madrigal has been taking grounders at third in an attempt to improve his worth/versatility. However, his career power numbers don’t fit the stereotype of a third baseman. I don’t think he’s throwing in the towel.

I don’t see the appeal of Zach McKinstry and why the Cubs are fixated with him. The 27-year-old infielder bats lefty, but not well. He’s a career .199 hitter that only slashed .206/.272/.361 with 4/12 in 47 games with the 2022 Cubs. He played 34 games at third and can play a little second base.

The most recent signee/applicant for the third base job is another left-handed hitter, Edwin Rios and like McKinstry is a former Dodger. The 28-year-old corner infielder projected as a power hitter despite only hitting 20 homers in parts of three seasons (112 games). His career slash line of .219/.299/.492 indicates a little more power than the other guys, but he never budged Justin Turner off third.

In reality, the sum may be greater than each of the parts, but the Cubs will do better if one of them earns the position outright. If released, the others would likely find jobs elsewhere and the Cubs might not want risk losing any of them.